Stepping into the shoes of James Bond is a tall order at the best of times, and it’s even tougher when following up Daniel Craig’s fantastic performance across the past five films. While every on-screen Bond has done well in the role (even George Lazenby acquitted himself sufficiently in his single turn), Craig brought the most emotionally loaded version of the character to life in a fashion that’s hard to match.

Against all odds, however, the newest man to take up the mantle has proven his mettle without missing a step. Winning the approval of fans is harder now for any franchise than ever before, but a huge portion of the community hasn’t hesitated to rally behind Bond’s fresh face.

X user Alex Wakeford is one of many to sing the praises of Patrick Gibson in the role of Bond, highlighting his starring performance in the new video game 007 First Light. Wakeford calls Gibson “effortlessly cheeky, charming, and modern,” concluding that he’s “exactly the kind of revitalising presence brands dream of.”

While 007 First Light isn’t a new movie, it features an extensive and compelling narrative that leans on Patrick Gibson’s voice, likeness, and motion capture. In the replies to Wakeford’s post, Ricky 117 calls the story “amazing” and Gibson’s performance “really compelling.” Last Chalice reaffirms Wakeford’s words, sharing that they “100% agree” with his take on Gibson in the role.

The next actor to take on the role of Bond in the film series has yet to be confirmed, so for the time being, Patrick Gibson is essentially the new face of the character. Some fans would be happy to see him cross over to the silver screen, but even if that doesn’t happen, it seems likely that he’ll return for another video game adventure.

I would certainly count myself among Gibson’s fans, as I’m in total agreement with Wakeford on how effortless he feels in the role. If there’s anything essential to playing Bond, it’s that his charm can never feel strained or artificial, and Gibson sidesteps any pitfalls with apparent ease. In a story that covers both the pathos of the Craig films and the sillier diversions of older Bond films, Gibson never feels out of place.

Hopefully, the next on-screen Bond will be able to deliver a performance of similar quality and carry the James Bond franchise forward with the confidence that it needs. If that falls through, though, a replay of 007 First Light might be the perfect alternative.

Systems

Released

May 27, 2026

ESRB

Teen / Blood, Language, Suggestive Themes, Violence, In-Game Purchases

Developer(s)

IO Interactive

Publisher(s)

IO Interactive